automotive

American  

[aw-tuh-moh-tiv, aw-tuh-moh-tiv] / ˌɔ təˈmoʊ tɪv, ˈɔ təˌmoʊ tɪv /

adjective

1. pertaining to the design, operation, manufacture, or sale of automobiles.

   automotive parts.

2. propelled by a self-contained motor, engine, or the like.

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noun

1. Informal. an industry, store department, etc., specializing in appliances and parts for cars, trucks, and other motorized vehicles.

   You may find what you're looking for in automotive.

automotive British  

/ ˌɔːtəˈməʊtɪv /

adjective

1. relating to motor vehicles

2. self-propelling

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Other Word Forms

• nonautomotive adjective

Etymology

Origin of automotive

First recorded in 1860–65; auto- ¹ + motive

Example Sentences

California built its tradition of open government — including for citizen boards that set the rules for such functions as automotive repair and security guard licensing — precisely to keep well-funded corporate interests in check.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

But he noted that "the automotive industry is undergoing a transformation and faces intense international competition."

From Barron's • Mar. 27, 2026

The survey found the war was particularly hitting energy-intensive industries, which include the automotive, chemical, pharmaceutical and mechanical engineering sectors.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026

“This shift is moving engineering from trial-and-error toward prediction-driven design, which can significantly accelerate innovation in industries like aerospace, automotive, and industrial machinery.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 2026

The automotive industry loves people like my father, because it means they can make lots of money from repairs that the car may or may not need.

From "Challenger Deep" by Neal Shusterman